USA Fencing Stands Firm on Trans Inclusion Policies Amid Controversy Following Athlete’s Protest

USA Fencing Stands Firm on Trans Inclusion Policies Amid Controversy Following Athlete’s Protest

USA Fencing is facing significant criticism after a viral video showcased women’s fencer Stephanie Turner kneeling in protest against a transgender opponent. This incident has stirred widespread debate, highlighting contentious issues surrounding inclusion in women’s sports.

Prominent figures from various sectors, including author J.K. Rowling and tennis legend Martina Navratilova, have publicly voiced their opinions on social media platforms. Their comments resonate with the concerns of numerous women’s sports rights activists who argue about fair competition and equity in athletics.

In response to the backlash, USA Fencing released an official statement on Thursday defending its trans-inclusion policies. The organization asserts its commitment to fostering an inclusive community where all athletes are welcomed.

“USA Fencing remains committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful community for everyone in our sport. We believe in creating safe environments where all athletes and community members have a place,” the statement reads. The organization acknowledges the diverse perspectives within the debate, reaffirming its intention to engage in respectful dialogues informed by research as policies evolve.

In 2023, USA Fencing implemented its current trans-inclusion policy, which allows transgender athletes to compete in the women’s category after completing one calendar year of testosterone suppression treatment. Prior to competition, proof of compliant hormone therapy must be provided. Furthermore, the organization has taken extra measures to prioritize the experiences of its transgender competitors.

In November 2022, USA Fencing introduced a policy designed to favor host cities for national tournaments located in states without laws that are perceived to negatively impact LGBTQ communities. This measure reflects the organization’s stance on prioritizing inclusivity and has been in effect since the start of the 2023 season.

“We’ve received feedback from many members, including our Board and elite athlete community, questioning whether continuing to host events in areas with anti-LGBTQ or anti-abortion laws aligns with our principles as an organization,” said USA Fencing CEO Phill Andrews. This consideration was pivotal during discussions on event locations.

Recently, USA Fencing shared a list of states it intends to “avoid where possible” due to restrictions impacting the LGBTQ community and reproductive health. The outright prohibitive states include Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Texas.

The “avoid where possible” list features states such as Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Utah, West Virginia, Wyoming, Alabama, Arkansas, and others. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure that events are held in supportive environments.

This sequence of policies has coincided with an increase in biological male fencers participating in women’s and girls’ USA Fencing-sanctioned events over the past two years. Notably, by September 2023, four biological male fencers achieved podium finishes in the women’s category, some of whom had previously competed in men’s events.

Turner voiced her perspective on the issue, indicating that the presence of transgender competitors is far more prevalent than statistics suggest. She remarked, “In fencing, I see it quite often. I have witnessed transgender fencers in women’s tournaments across various age categories, notably the youngest age group, Y-14.”

The transgender athlete Turner refused to compete against, Redmond Sullivan, had previously participated in men’s events until June 2023. Sullivan did not compete from then until a return on September 28, 2024, marking the athlete’s debut in the women’s category in Connecticut, where Sullivan subsequently secured two gold medals.

This December, the Fair Fencing Organization, a nonprofit entity within the sport, issued an open letter to USA Fencing Board Members, calling for a reevaluation of its stance on transgender inclusion. The letter encouraged the establishment of a task force to facilitate an in-depth examination of the issues within fencing to ensure all women’s voices are heard without intimidation.

Shortly thereafter, however, board members voted against motions proposing an all-female task force to reconsider the transgender policy. The vote, which concluded with an 8-3 decision, left many members of the community feeling unheard in their pursuit of protection from trans inclusion.

Amid the growing controversy spurred by Turner’s protest, USA Fencing provided a clarification. The organization reiterated that its transgender and nonbinary athlete policy was enacted in 2023 to enhance access and foster safe, inclusive spaces within the sport.

“We respect the viewpoints on all sides and encourage our members to continue sharing their perspectives as the situation evolves,” USA Fencing stated. The organization emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue conducted in a respectful manner at tournaments and in online forums.

Regarding Turner’s disqualification, a USA Fencing spokesperson clarified that it was not due to her stance against transgender inclusion. Instead, it stemmed from her refusal to compete against an eligible opponent, which contravenes guidelines set by the International Fencing Federation.

“According to the FIE Technical Rules, specifically Article t.113, a fencer is not permitted to refuse to fence another properly entered fencer for any reason. Such a refusal results in disqualification and associated sanctions, in order to maintain fair competition standards,” the spokesperson clarified.

Engaging in Respectful Dialogue Moving Forward

The ongoing debate surrounding transgender inclusion in sports is complex and multifaceted. As the discourse unfolds, it is vital for all stakeholders to prioritize respectful and informed discussions while seeking equitable solutions. USA Fencing’s commitment to analysis, dialogue, and inclusivity underscores the importance of navigating these sensitive issues within the sporting community.

Sport should remain a platform for unity, understanding, and equitable competition, hosting dialogues that foster mutual respect, empathy, and fairness.